According to several people familiar with the EU case, the European Commission’s antitrust directorate has drafted a ruling stating that Microsoft has failed properly to implement the EU’s antitrust decision of March 2004. Brussels, which has been battling with the group for almost seven years, believes this constitutes a fresh violation by Microsoft.

Just what is Microsoft supposed to have done wrong?

At the heart of the conflict is the Commission’s allegation that Microsoft has failed to provide rival software companies with “complete and accurate” information about its Windows operating system – an order that formed a crucial part of its 2004 ruling.

Microsoft appears to disagree with pending ruling:

Horacio Gutierrez, Microsoft’s senior lawyer in Europe, said the company was still working hard to meet the Commission’s compliance concerns. “Any fine would be unjustified and unnecessary,” he said.